FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to therapeutic exercise devices and methods. More specifically, the present invention relates to therapeutic exercise devices and methods for improving balance, strength, flexibility, and physical rehabilitation.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are various types of exercise devices available nowadays for exercising the human body, and the therapeutic benefits of exercises have been well established for everyone from athletes in prime condition to those who need rehabilitation, for instance, stroke, muscle disorder, after a spinal cord injury (SCI), a surgical operation or those who suffer paralysis or debilitating disease. Various injuries and illnesses frequently require prolonged immobilization which tends to cause general weakening of the muscles in the human body. Appropriate exercise devices are therefore used in the process of physical rehabilitation. However, in some cases, exercise devices can actually cause physical damage rather than assist in the rehabilitation of a patient.

It is, therefore, an aim of the present invention to provide a unique therapeutic exercise device and method of use specifically designed for therapeutic rehabilitation of a patient.

Another aim of the invention is to provide a physical therapeutic exercise device and method adjustable for a wide range of conditions requiring therapy or rehabilitation.

Another aim of the present invention is to provide a simple, inexpensive, and easy to use, therapeutic exercise device that is easily configured from a use to a storage position for easy portability and storage of the device.

Yet another aim of the present invention is to provide a therapeutic exercise device for professional use in physical therapy clinics as well as for personal use at home. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device for pathology involving impairment of inters egmental coordination. The device comprises a rotating arm connected to a surface/frame, one end of said rotating arm is connectable to said surface/frame, and another end of said rotating arm comprises rolling means for moving said rotating arm substantially freely in various directions on said surface/frame; said rotating arm comprises a positioning mechanism either fixed in position at a desired point along said rotating arm or slidable along said rotating arm and a steering wheel connected to said positioning mechanism to be held with both hands of a user.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the steering wheel is fixed in position at a desired point along the rotating arm while the rotating arm is moving freely in various directions.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the steering wheel is fixed in position at a desired point along the rotating arm and is rotating on its axis while the rotating arm is moving freely in various directions.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm is fixed in place while the steering wheel is sliding along the rotating arm.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm is fixed in place while the steering wheel is sliding along the rotating arm and is rotating on its axis.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm is being moved freely in various directions while the steering wheel is sliding along the rotating arm and is rotating on its axis.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, said surface/frame is either a vertical surface/frame or a horizontal surface/frame. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the surface/frame is having a shape selected from a rectangular shape, elliptic shape, circular, triangular, and quadrangular.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the vertical surface/frame is preferably a table surface/frame.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the horizontal surface/frame is selected from a wall, a pillar, and a bed frame. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the surface/frame is inclined up to an angle of substantially 45°.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the table comprises foldable legs, said foldable legs having an adjustable length to enable a user to either stand or sit in front of the table and/or to accommodate users of different heights.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm is hingedly connected to an integral hinge element on said surface/frame to allow a circular motion.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the integral hinge element is a ball hinge positioned at a distance of 3 to 20 cm above the surface/frame and preferably 5 to 15 cm above the surface/frame. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rolling means is a swivel/caster wheel.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rolling means comprises brakes for stopping the rotating arm.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device further comprises safety stoppers, said stoppers are either fixed in place or removable and repositionable. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, said stoppers are rectangular in shape, elliptic in shape, circular, triangular, or quadrangular.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm comprises two members, a first member and a second member, the length of said first member and second member is adjustable for users of different heights.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, each of said first member and second member is formed of two tubes, a first tube and a second tube, said first tube fits inside said second tube, and said two tubes are secured to a desired length based on a user’s height.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, said rotating arm is comprised of a hollowed tube within which positioning mechanism slides, the length of said hollowed tube is adjustable for users of different heights.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, said two tubes are secured to a desired length via a screwable pin going through a hole in the second tube and tightened, pressing against the first tube.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm is preferably but not necessarily 40- 50cm in length.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, said steering wheel is hingedly connected to the positioning mechanism.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the steering wheel is either vertical or inclined to said positioning mechanism. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the steering wheel has one of a rectangular shape, a circular shape, elliptical shape, a polygon shape, a quadrangular shape, a triangular shape, a T shape, a downward projecting triangle held from its base, a bicycle-type steering wheel, and a vehicle-type steering wheel.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, an upper portion of the steering wheel to be held by the user may be continuous or discontinuous.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the height of the steering wheel is adjustable to accommodate users of differing body structure. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the steering wheel is comprised of telescopic cylinders the length of which is extendable/retractable.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the height of the steering wheel is between 10-60 cm and preferably 15-45 cm. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the surface, the rotating arm, the steering wheel, and the stoppers are made of a material selected from metal, alloy, polymeric material, wood and a combination thereof.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, said trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device is activated by one of mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical means.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device includes resisting force selected from surface/frame roughness, weights on the steering wheel and breaks in either the rotating arm or the steering wheel.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device is computerized and comprises at least one sensor.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device provides tactical visual and/or audio feedback to the user.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device includes virtual reality features to provide the user visual stimulation while exercising.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the surface/frame comprises audio features and/or visual features and/or tactical signals either on the surface/frame or in front of the surface to stimulate the user to move his/her arms in different angles.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device comprises at least one element to be placed underneath the user’s feet to give the user a sensory, auditory, motor stimulus.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, said at least one element comprises weight measurement feature(s).

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, said at least one element is selected from an inclined surface/frame, a conveyor belt, a sensory rug, and a force plate.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the inclined surface/frame is characterized by changeable inclination angle for exercising while standing on a slopping surface/frame.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, said inclined surface/frame is selected from a sound matrix surface/frame, and/or a surface/frame having a different sensory texture.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device is foldable and portable. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device allows the user to practice the thorax rotation movement while in a sitting position and in multiple standing positions, thus, improving balance and weight shifting.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device allows the user to actively rotate the steering wheel while he/she is standing or sitting, and thus, enabling movements of the upper body (thorax and arm) and separation from the head and the lower body (pelvis and legs).

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device allows exercising rotation of the user’s chest while transferring weight from one leg to another, said exercising allows for coordination between body segments and lower limbs. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device allows strengthening, stretching, increasing the flexibility of and/or rehabilitating multiple core and other muscles including respiratory muscles, erector spinal muscles, scapular muscles, abdominals, pelvic and lower limbs muscles all together in a coordinated and functional practice.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device is used for improving stability and walking quality in people with walking disorders due to Parkinson’s disease, cerebral ataxia, a brain event, cerebral palsy, low back pain and the like. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device is used by users suffering from a neurologic illness including cerebrovascular accident, Parkinson’s disease, cerebellar ataxia, muscle defect, deformity and impairment.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, said trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device improves pulmonary ventilation and enlarged range of motion of the trunk.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, said trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device contributes to strengthening and having a firm standing, contributes to enlarge a range of motion of a scapula, shoulder and elbow, and improves weight bearing shifting in different standing positions.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, there is also provided a method for pathology involving impairment of intersegmental coordination comprising:

providing the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device of claims 1-51 and using the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device to enhance thorax rotation while coordinating with other body segments in order to improve body control.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the method comprising fixing the steering wheel in position at a desired point along the rotating arm while moving the rotating arm freely in various directions. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the method comprising fixing the steering wheel in position at a desired point along the rotating arm and rotating the steering wheel on its axis while moving the rotating arm freely in various directions.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the method comprising fixing the rotating arm in place while the sliding the steering wheel along the rotating arm.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the method comprising fixing the rotating arm in place while sliding the steering wheel along the rotating arm and rotating the steering wheel on its axis.

Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the method comprising moving the rotating arm freely in various directions while sliding the steering wheel along the rotating arm and rotating the steering wheel on its axis.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Fig. 1A illustrates a trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. IB illustrates the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device of Fig. 1 A where the rotating arm is positioned at a point after being rotated in a circular path all the way to the right edge of the surface.

Fig. 1C is a top view of the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 2 illustrates the rotating arms in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 3 is a magnified view of the rotating arm and the steering wheel in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 4 illustrates the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device and a user holding the steering wheel.

Figs. 5A&B illustrate two positions in exercise no. 1 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Figs. 6A&B illustrate two positions in exercise no. 2 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Figs. 7A&B illustrate two positions in exercise no. 3 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 8 illustrates a position in exercise no. 4 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 9 illustrates a position in exercise no. 5 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 10 illustrates a position in exercise no. 6 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 11 illustrates a position in exercise no. 7 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Fig. 1A illustrates a trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

The trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 comprises a surface/frame such as surface 102 of table 104, a rotating arm 106, and at least one steering wheel 108 to be held with both hands.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the legs of table 104 may be comprised of telescopic cylinders the length of which may be easily extendable/retractable.

Surface 102 has to be positioned about 40-120 cm above the ground. Thus, in case of a table, the height of table 104 is preferably but not necessarily 50-120 cm.

Surface 102 may be flat or may be inclined up to an angle of 45 degrees (Beyond this angle the back may experience a bending movement instead of a rotational movement, and this may impair the joint articulation).

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the height of the table 104 is adjustable in order to stand/sit in front of the table, and in order to accommodate the table to users of different heights. In addition, the legs of the table 104 may be foldable for accommodation and transportation. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm 106 is hingedly connected to surface 102 by various means. For instance, the proximate end of the rotating arm 106 is hingedly connected to an integral hinge element such as, for instance, a ball hinge in member 110 to allow a circular motion.

Member 110 is connected to surface 102 in the middle of the surface 102 or elsewhere on the surface 102, and its height may be, for instance, 3 -20cm and preferably but not necessarily 5-15 cm.

At its distal end, the rotating arm 106 comprises rolling means such as, for instance, at least one swivel/caster wheel 112 such as for instance a 5 cm diameter rubber caster wheel or any other rolling means that allows the rotating arm 106 to move substantially freely in various directions and preferably in a circular motion along a circular path. Thus, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm 106 may be rotated on its axis or may be fixedly positioned in its place.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rolling means may comprise brakes for stopping the rotating arm.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm 106 further comprises a positioning mechanism 114 onto which the at least one steering wheel 108 is connected. Thus, the at least one steering wheel 108 may slide along the rotating arm 106 and may be fixedly situated at various points along the rotating arm 106 via positioning mechanism 114.

Fig. IB illustrates the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 of Fig. 1A where the rotating arm 106 is positioned at a point after being rotated along a circular path all the way to the right edge of the surface 102.

As seen in the figure, the surface 102 may include removable and repositionable safety stoppersl 03A&B to limit the movement of the rotating arm 106 to 180°. The safety stoppers 103A&B in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention may be rectangular in shape, elliptic in shape, circular, triangular, quadrangular or any other shape. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the length of the stoppers may vary preferably but not necessarily from 2 to 10 cm, the width may vary preferably but not necessarily from 1 to 3 cm and the height may be preferably but not necessarily 1 to 5 cm.

Fig. 1C is a top view of the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Seen in the figure is the circular path 120 along which the rotation arm 106 is rotatable.

Fig. 2 illustrates the rotating arms 106 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

As seen in the figure, the rotating arm 106 may be formed of at least one member, for instance, a first member 202 and a second member 204.

The length of rotating arm 106 may be adjusted for users of different height.

In accordance with some embodiments, the at least one member, i.e., each of first member 202 and second member 204, may be formed of multiple tubes, for instance, two tubes, the first tube having a smaller diameter than the second tube, so that the first tube fits inside the second tube. The tubes can be secured to a desired length through length adjustment means which can have any structure known in the art. They can, for example, comprise a screwable pin going through a hole in the second tube having the larger diameter and, when tightened, pressing against the first tube having the smaller diameter.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, rotating arm 106 may comprise length adjustment means other than the described, i.e., mechanical means, electrical means or any others.

Alternatively, rotating arm 106 may be a hollowed tube within which positioning mechanism 114 slides. The length of the hollowed tube is adjustable for users of different heights.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm

106 may be preferably but not necessarily 40- 50cm in length and preferably but not necessarily 8- 10cm in width. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the positioning mechanism 114 may comprise a sliding element 206 and an element 207 rotatable on its axis onto which the steering wheel 108 is connected. Element 207 is either secured in place, and thus the steering wheel 108 is secured in place, or rotating on its axis, and thus the steering wheel 108 is rotating on its axis. Sliding element 206 is slidably mounted on the at least one member, i.e., as seen in the figure, on first member 202 and second member 204. The sliding element 206 may slide along the at least one member and may be secured to the at least one member at a desired position for instance via screws or any other way. As seen in the figure, sliding element 206 may slide along first member 202 and second member 204 and may be fixedly secured (tightened) to the first member 202 and second member 204 at a desired position.

Fig. 3 is a magnified view of the rotating arm 106 and the steering wheel 108 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

The steering wheel 108 may be padded with covers of various textures and may include scoops or fixtures such as plastic fixtures for attaching the user’s hands to the steering wheel 108. As seen in the figure, the steering wheel 108 may be connected to the rotating arm 106 via positioning mechanism 114. The positioning mechanism 114 is slidable along first member 202 and second member 204 to a desired location and securable at that point to the first member 202 and second member 204 via screws or any other way.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the steering wheel 108 may be fixedly connected to the positioning mechanism 114. Alternatively, the steering wheel 108 may be hingedly connected to the positioning mechanism 114 to allow rotating the steering wheel 108 clockwise/counterclockwise while the positioning mechanism 114 is either fixed in place or sliding along the first member 202 and second member 204 of rotating arm 106.

Thus, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the steering wheel 108 may be rotated clockwise and counterclockwise or may be fixed in position while the positioning mechanism 114 is sliding along the first member 202 and second member 204 of rotating arm 106.

In addition, the steering wheel 108 may be hingedly connected to positioning mechanism 114 either in a vertical position or inclined forward/ backwards. Thus, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the steering wheel 108 may be fixed in position at a desired point along the rotating arm 106 while the rotating arm 106 is moving freely in various directions. Alternatively, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the steering wheel 108 is fixed in position at a desired point along the rotating arm 106 and is rotating on its axis, i.e., clockwise/counterclockwise while the rotating arm 106 is being moved freely in various directions.

Alternatively, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm 106 is fixed in place while the steering wheel 108 is sliding along the rotating arm 106 with no rotations clockwise/counterclockwise.

Alternatively, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm 106 is fixed in place while the steering wheel 108 is sliding along the rotating arm 106 and is rotating clockwise/counterclockwise.

Alternatively, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm 106 is being moved freely in various directions

while the steering wheel 108 is sliding along the rotating arm 106 and is rotating clockwise/counterclockwise.

The steering wheel 108 may have a rectangular shape, a circular shape, elliptical shape, a polygon shape, a quadrangular shape, a triangular shape, a T shape, a downward projecting triangle held from its base, a bicycle-type steering wheel, a vehicle-type steering Wheel, or any other shape.

The upper portion 304 of the steering wheel to be held by the user may be continuous or discontinuous.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the height of the steering wheel 108 is adjustable to accommodate users of differing body structure via electrical and/or mechanical means or any other means. For instance, the steering wheel 108 may be comprised of telescopic cylinders the length of which may be easily extendable/retractable - the first cylinder having a smaller diameter than the second cylinder, so that the first cylinder fits inside the second cylinder. The cylinders can be secured to a desired length through length adjustment means which can have any structure known in the art. They can, for example, comprise a screwable pin going through a hole in the second cylinder having the larger diameter and, when tightened, pressing against the first cylinder having the smaller diameter. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the height of the steering wheel 108 is preferably but not necessarily 15-45 cm.

The width of the steering wheel 108 may preferably but not necessarily vary from approximately 10 cm to 50 cm.

Fig. 4 illustrates the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 and a user holding the steering wheel 108. The dashed errors illustrate the alternating direction of the exercise movement in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the surface 102 of the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 may be rectangular in shape, elliptic in shape, circular, triangular, quadrangular or any other shape. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the surface 102 (whether a surface of a table or any other structure), the rotating arm 106, the steering wheel 108, the stoppers 103A&B and the handles for carrying the table 104 may be made of metal, alloy, polymeric material, wood a combination thereof or any other material.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 may be activated by mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical means.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 may include a resisting force provided via extra surface roughness, weights on the steering wheel and/or breaks in the rotating arm 106. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the resisting force may be generated via electrical or hydraulic means.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 may comprise various sensors such, as pressure sensors, and may be computerized and as such may provide visual and/or audio feedback to the exercising user.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 may include virtual reality features so that the patient will receive visual stimulation while exercising. The device 100 may include visual features and/or signals on the surface 102 or in front of the surface 102. Such signals may stimulate the patient to move his/her arm in different angles.

The trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 may include various elements to be placed underneath the user’s feet to give the user a sensory, auditory, motor stimulus. Such elements may be selected from a standing gradient, conveyor belt, sensory' rug, power plate and more. Such elements may include weight measurement option.

In addition, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 may include an inclined surface or multiple inclined surfaces (where the inclination angle is changeable) for exercising while standing on a slopping surface. For instance, the device 100 may include two inclined surfaces (one for each leg), a sound matrix surface, and/or a surface having a different sensory texture on which the user stands.

In accordance to some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating arm 106 of the device 100 may be connected to any surface, either vertical or horizontal surface. For instance, the rotating arm 106 may be connected to a bed frame, a wall, a pillar such as a pillar coming out of the ground/floor, a pillar coming down from the ceiling or any other frame to allow proper use of the device 100.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 may be foldable and portable and may be used anywhere, such as in a home, a park, a gym, a hospital, a medical clinic, a doctor's office, a chiropractor's office, a sports injury facility, a physical therapy facility, a back pain center, some other type of rehabilitative facility, a nursing home, a senior center or the like.

The trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 is typically susceptible of a relatively low cost of manufacture with regard to both materials and labor.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 of the present invention may be used for practicing mtersegmental coordination. The device 100 allows a user to practice the thorax rotation movement while in a sitting position as well as in various standing positions, thus, improving balance and weight shifting.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the device 100 gives a sensory signal to the rotation of the chest - exercising the rotation of the chest while transferring the weight from one leg to the other allows for coordination between the body segments and the lower limbs. While exercising, the patient is transferring weight from one leg to another and at the same time rotating the thorax at the opposite direction providing optimal weight transfer from one leg to another.

The trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 of the present invention also allows strengthening, stretching, increasing the flexibility of and/or rehabilitating a wide variety of core and other muscles, such as for instance the respiratory muscles, erector spinal muscles, scapular muscles, abdominals, pelvic and lower limbs muscles all together in a coordinated and functional practice.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention the device 100 is used for improving stability and walking quality in people (adults and children) with walking disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, cerebral ataxia, people after a brain event, cerebral palsy, people with low back pain and more. The user of the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 may have or may be recovering from a variety of neurologic illnesses such as cerebrovascular accident, Parkinson’s disease, cerebellar ataxia and/or muscle defect, deformity or impairment.

USES:

The trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 allows the user holding the steering wheel 108 to actively rotate the steering wheel 108 while he/she is standing or sitting, and thus, enabling movements of the upper body (thorax and arm) and separation from the head and the lower body (pelvis and legs).

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 is advantageous for the following:

(1) Mobility of the Thorax - the device 100 contributes to a better pulmonary ventilation and enlarged range of motion of the trunk.

(2) Exercises back core lower limb muscles - the device 100 contributes to strengthening and having a firm standing.

(3) Mobility of the arm - the device 100 contributes to enlarge the range of motion of the scapula, shoulder and elbow.

(4) practicing Head- Thorax-pelvis-legs coordination - the device 100 improves weight bearing shifting in different standing positions.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a method of using the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 for practicing the inter-segmental coordination is provided herein.

The method is adjustable for any pathology involving impairment of intersegmental coordination such as cerebellar ataxia, Parkinson, walking disturbance, cva (cerebrovascular accident), backache and other pathologies involving intersegmental coordination impairment.

The method is based on active exercises where the order of the exercises, starting with (a) the head, and continuing with (b) the thorax, (c) the pelvic, and (d) the lower limb, highlights the coordination between the body segments on the body axis. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 may be used to enhance the thorax rotation while coordinating with the other body segments in order to improve body control.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 may be used in the following exercises:

Exercise 1 :

Figs. 5A&B illustrate two positions of exercise No. 1 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Goal: Head - eye coordination practice.

Purpose: practicing the vestibulo ocular reflex for focusing the eyes forward while the head is moving.

Position: seating or standing.

The patient is focusing his/her eyes on a visual target and is rotating his/her head to the left as in Fig. 5A and then to the right as seen in Fig. 5B. The goal is not to move the pupils from the target.

Repetitions: from 1 to 5 times to the left side and 1 to 5 times to the right side.

Exercise 2:

Figs. 6A&B illustrate two positions of exercise No. 2 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Goal: head - thorax coordination practice.

Purpose: focusing the head upright looking forward and balancing the body while the thorax is rotating.

Position: seating.

Shifting weight, while seating, to one leg, rotating the steering wheel 108 of the trunk mobility and coordination enhancing device 100 while directing the thorax rotation to the opposite direction. Keeping the head upright and looking forward during the exercise. Repetitions: staying in position at each side for about 10 seconds as seen in Figs. 6A&B, and rotating the steering wheel 108 continuously (rotating arm 106 from side to side without moving the head). Repeating the exercise at least 5 times at each side.

Exercise 3:

Figs. 7A&B illustrate two positions of exercise No. 3 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Goal: head - thorax - pelvis - leg coordination practice.

Purpose: practicing stabilizing and coordinating weight shift while rotating the thorax for better weight shifting.

Position: starting with a basic standing position.

Details: basic standing, keeping the head upright looking at a visual stimulation (photo, painting etc.) in front. Shifting weight to one leg and moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 to the opposite direction thus rotating the thorax (the patient feels a greater weight on the leu).

Keeping the head upright and in position, keeping the pelvic and lower limb in position (keeping the head, the pelvic and lower limb fixed in position). No side flexion of the back

Moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 from side to side continuously while shifting weight form one leg to the other. Practicing leg bearing and opposite thorax rotation.

Repetitions: Performing the exercise for about 10 seconds at each side as seen in Figs. 7A&B, and repeating the exercise at least 5 times at each side.

Exercise 4:

Fig. 8 illustrates a position of exercise No. 4 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Goal: head - thorax- pelvis - leg coordination practice.

Purpose: practicing weight shifting from the back leg to the front leg while coordinating with the thorax rotation for a better weight shifting. Position: a step position (one leg back one leg forward)

Details: the starting position is of a step position - keeping the head upright looking at a visual stimulation such as a photo, painting etc.

Shifting weight to the back leg, followed by moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 to the opposite direction (for instance, if the back leg is the right leg, then moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 to the left) thus rotating the thorax. The patient feels more weight on the back leg. Then, shifting weight to the forward leg and moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 to the opposite direction (if the weight is shifted to the right leg, directing and moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 to the left), thus rotating the thorax. The patient feels more weight on the forward leg. Keeping the head upright, keeping the pelvic and lower limb in position (no rotation of the head and the pelvic and lower limb).

Repetitions: (a) maintaining the step position for about 10 seconds at each rotation side as seen in Fig. 8 and repeating the exercise at least 5 times at each side (b) moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 from side to side continuously while shifting weight form the back leg to the forward leg. This exercise enables practicing leg bearing and opposite thorax rotation.

Exercise 5:

Fig. 9 illustrates a position of exercise No. 5 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Goal: head - thorax- pelvis - leg coordination practice at higher level.

Purpose: practicing and stabilizing weight shifting from one leg to another while coordinating with thorax rotation for a better weight shifting.

Position: standing position, having one leg on a step stool.

Details: standing with one leg on a step stool, keeping the head upright looking at a visual stimulation such as photo, painting, and the like in front.

Keeping the head upright up and in position, keeping the pelvic and lower limb in position (no rotation of the head and the pelvic and lower limb). No side flexion of the back. Shifting weight to one leg, and moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 to the opposite direction (if the weight is shifted to the right leg, directing and moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 to the left), thus rotating the thorax. The patient feels more weight on the leg.

Performing the exercise once with the left leg on a stair/step stool and then with the right leg on the stair/step stool.

Repetitions: performing the exercise for about 10 second at each side as seen in Fig. 9, and repeating the exercise at least 5 times at each side.

Exercise 6:

Fig. 10 illustrates a position of exercise No. 6 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Goal: head - thorax- pelvis - leg coordination practice at advanced level

Purpose: practicing and stabilizing weight shifting from one leg to another while coordinating with thorax rotation for a better weight shifting. The exercise includes stabilization against backward falling.

Position: basic standing position on an inclined board.

Details: Practicing leg bearing and opposite thorax rotation - starting with basic standing on an inclined board. Keeping the head upright looking at a visual stimulation (photo, painting etc) in front. Shifting weight to one leg, and moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 to the opposite direction (if the weight is shifted to the right leg, directing and moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 to the left), thus rotating the thorax.

Moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 continuously from side to side while shifting weight form one leg to another. The patient will feel more weight on the leg.

Keeping the head, pelvic and lower limb in position.

No side flexion of the back.

Repetitions: Performing the exercise for about 10 seconds at each side as seen in Fig. 10. Exercise 7:

Fig. 11 illustrates a position of exercise No. 7 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Goal: head - thorax- pelvis - leg coordination practice at advanced level

Purpose: practicing weight shifting from the back leg to the forward leg while coordinating with thorax rotation for a better weight shifting.

Position: Position: standing on an inclined board. Having a step position (one leg back and one leg forward) on an inclined board.

Details: the starting position is of a step position on an inclined board. Keeping the head upright looking on at a visual stimulation such as a photo, painting and the like.

Shifting weight to the back leg, and then moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 to the opposite direction (if the weight is shifted to the right leg, directing and moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 to the left), thus rotating the thorax. The patient feels more weight on the back leg.

Then, shifting the weight to the front leg, followed by moving the steering wheel 108 and the rotating arm 106 to the opposite direction thus rotating the thorax. Patient feels more weight on the front leg.

Moving the steering wheel 108 continuously and the rotating arm 106 from side to side while shifting the weight from one leg to another - practicing leg bearing and opposite thorax rotation.

The head, pelvic and the lower limb are kept in position.

Repetitions: Performing the exercise for about 10 seconds at each side as seen in Fig. 11, and repeating the exercise at least 5 times at each side.